How to Go Green at Airports
You may be going green at the airport without even knowing it. From peering out the large glass windows that allow natural light, to riding to your terminal in an alternative-fuel vehicle, you are embracing the green travel style. Airports are working hard to change their perception as major contributors to pollution, according to Sam Sleiman, Boston Logan Airport's director of capital programs and environmental affairs. In addition to participating in innovative green projects proposed by airports, you can adopt your own habits for going green.
Instructions
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Windmills installed at Boston Logan International Airport generate energy for the terminal. Choose to fly on airlines and through airports that embrace environmentally friendly initiatives. Some of the largest airports are aggressively implementing energy- and cost-saving green measures. Check airport websites for outlines of their green policies.
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Save on paper by using electronic tickets. Elect to receive your ticket electronically rather than requesting a paper ticket for travel.
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Pack lightly. Pack lighter and smaller amounts of luggage which cuts back on fuel usage for the aircraft. Every passenger who cuts back on weight lessens fuel consumption.
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Use a recycled plastic zip-lock bag for your toiletries and pack an extra one for the trip home in case your bottles leak.
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Wash your hands often while traveling to cut down on germs. Air dry your hands or use an electric hand dryer instead of individual paper towels. Simple practices contribute to going green.
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Download magazines onto an electronic reader. Read your favorite books or magazines on an electronic reader rather than buying paper products. The Amazon Kindle and the Barnes and Noble Nook are two popular options.
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Carry a refillable water bottle to save on waste. Carry a refillable water bottle that you can empty when going through security and refill from the tap.
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Take part in any recycling initiative available to you. Take advantage of in-airport and on-board recycling programs such as disposing of plastics, papers and glass in the appropriate receptacles.
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Tips & Warnings
Limit your use of any disposable products while traveling. Choose refillable or reusable items to cut back on solid waste.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit airport 3 image by Lucy Cherniak from Fotolia.com windmills image by Fotocie from Fotolia.com buying a ticket image by Peter Baxter from Fotolia.com luggages image by MLProject from Fotolia.com stack of magazines image by Chad McDermott from Fotolia.com blue water bottle image by Jim Mills from Fotolia.com poubelle recyclable. image by Bruno Bernier from Fotolia.com